Poco Ranaka Soft Mountain Trekking in Ruteng Flores

Poco Ranaka is part of a volcanic chain in the centre of Manggarai. The volcano is still very active. In 1987, a lava dome started growing on its flank, which was aptly named Anak Ranaka – child of Ranaka. Today, Poco Ranaka is an integrated part of Taman Wisata Alam Ruteng, which aims to promote conservation and tourism.

At the summit of Poco Ranaka there is a chapel, which is a popular place of pilgrimage among the locals. A paved road has been built some time ago but it is in a desolate condition and, even though you could go all the way to the chapel by motorbike, it is better and much nicer to walk. Nice views will open up along the trail. On the top, the chapel welcomes you. The trail ends at 2286 meters above sea level. Unfortunately, the view from the top is obscured by tall, thick bushes.

Nevertheless, this easy hike is a beautiful adventure with many splendid views on the way up; and Ranaka is a fantastic bird watching spot with species like the changeable hawk-eagle, the bare-throated whistler, the chestnut-backed thrush, and the Flores minivet. The endemic Wallace’s hanging parrot has been documented but some of the other endemics might be found here as well.